This study examines the influence of crime on the residents of Gugulethu, a previously
disadvantaged urban community in the Cape Metropole. The research is particularly
focused on the growing crime rate, which is perceived to adversely affect community
development.
Qualitative and quantitative research methods were employed in this study and two
techniques of data collection were adhered to namely, self-administered questionnaires and
person-to-person interviews. The target population of the survey were the residents of
Gugulethu.
The study found that the Gugulethu area suffers from problems associated with high levels
of crime, high unemployment and lack of physical infrastructure. Violent crimes such as
robbery, rape and assault are commonplace, occurring during daytime as well as at night.
The range of criminal activity is comprehensive though. The study found that crime
impacted negatively on citizens’ social and economic well-being in that economic
opportunities were limited and economic investment curtailed. The situation is similar to that
experienced with other deprived areas in the Cape Metropole, including parts of Mitchells
Plain as well as Khayelitsha. Gugulethu is a smaller, more established urban area than
Khayelitsha.
The study forwards several recommendations relating to interventions which should be
taken to ensure a secure environment for local residents, potential developers and
investors, thus facilitating continued and much needed development in the area. Among the
recommendations put forward are the upgrading of local infrastructure, the establishment of
a healthy relationship between the community and the police, including the development of
such initiatives as effectual Community Policing Forums (CPFs) and community
development safety centres.